According to OSHA regulation 29 CFR 1926.1101, how often is a medical exam given to an asbestos abatement worker?

• A. Weekly
• B. At new hire and yearly
• C. Every 2 years
• D. Only at assignment

Answer: (B)

Medical surveillance for workers exposed to asbestos is required before they start work and at least once every year after that. OSHA sets this up for those exposed to asbestos at or above the permissible exposure limit, ensuring a baseline health assessment before assignment and ongoing monitoring to catch any early signs of asbestos-related health effects.

The yearly interval matters because exposing workers to asbestos over time can lead to gradual health changes, so periodic exams help protect their health and can trigger actions if problems are found. The exam is provided at no cost to the worker and is arranged by the employer, with the physician determining the specific medical test components.

Other timeframes—weekly, every two years, or only at the moment of assignment—don’t align with the regulation’s intent for ongoing health monitoring during exposure.